Prince Charles leaves his mark on NRL

It takes some effort to unsettle Greg Bird, but the Gold Coast hardman was left flustered by a 63-year-old on Friday.

The NSW and Australia representative met Prince Charles as rugby league showed off its indigenous roots - via a game on the beach involving NRL stars Greg Inglis, Willie Tonga and Bird.

And despite being coached in how to present himself to His Royal Highness, Bird admitted to some pre-game jitters when the moment arrived.

"We got told what we were supposed to say, but when he stuck his hand out I got a little bit flustered and star struck and I think I said `G'day'," Bird said.

"... I went over to the sideline to have a rest and he actually came over and spoke to me and (Indigenous All Stars coach) Laurie (Daley) which was amazing really.

"He seemed incredibly friendly. He put his hand out to shake my hand before I even realised he was standing next to me."

The Prince, who interim ARLC chief executive Shane Mattiske revealed had played second row in his younger years in rugby union, arrived to large crowds at Bondi Beach - and then a heavy downpour which forced him to take refuge inside momentarily.

But it was rugby league's day to shine and the sun broke through long enough for Prince Charles to take in some of the skills of Inglis and Bird as they played a game of touch football on the beach with indigenous students.

"It's a wonderful day for the game and it's wonderful recognition also for the work we've been doing in the indigenous space and in our communities generally," Mattiske said.

"He certainly understands the rugby league game."

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